Middlewich 3rd XI stormed to a commanding 151-run win over Widnes, led by a magnificent maiden century from Marco Azakli — a player who’s risen through the club’s junior ranks to reach a memorable first milestone in senior cricket.

After winning the toss and choosing to bat, Middlewich set the tone with a solid team performance. Azakli anchored the innings with a classy unbeaten 101 from 113 balls, finding boundaries with ease and composure. He was well supported by Oliver Perry, who smashed an aggressive 46*, and Omkar Singh’s quickfire 15. With 38 extras gifted by the Widnes bowlers, Middlewich posted a formidable 219/5 from their 40 overs.

In response, Widnes never looked likely to challenge the revised DLS target of 210 from 37 overs. Tight bowling and discipline in the field kept the pressure on throughout. Marco Azakli followed up his batting heroics with the ball, taking 3/27, while Oliver Perry matched him with 3/26. Omkar Singh bowled with economy and menace, conceding just 2 runs in his six overs and taking a wicket. Mark Bloor also chipped in with a miserly 1/3 from four overs.

Widnes limped to 58/6 in 22 overs before the rain brought an early end — but there was no denying Middlewich’s dominance, with a full 12-point haul secured.

It was a day to remember for Marco Azakli — a young man who’s been part of the club since his junior days and now takes his place among its centurions. A performance that highlights not only his development, but the strength of the club’s junior pathway.